With all five starters returning on the offensive line, including three that started as true freshmen last season, it looked unlikely that any of AU's backup linemen could steal a starting position this spring.

But Byron Isom wasn't satisfied with being a backup. Despite the odds, the sophomore was determined to make a strong push for the first-team.

"I just felt like it was time to get on that field," said Isom. "That's pretty much my motivation. I just like to play. I like to play football and that's what I want to do."

Isom showed considerable improvement through the first few spring practices and then starting right guard Chaz Ramsey went down with a back injury.

Isom stepped into the starting unit and has thrived in his position the last two weeks.